Notre-Dame des Laves
Réunion
Notre-Dame des Laves is a remarkable Catholic church located in Piton Sainte-Rose, Sainte-Rose commune on Réunion Island, France. This small, pink-painted church is famous for its survival during the 1977 eruption of the nearby Piton de la Fournaise volcano, when lava flowed around and partially into the building, stopping just three meters inside the nave without destroying it. The church's resilience has made it an iconic symbol of faith and endurance for the local community. Nearby stands the statue known as the Vierge au Parasol, which was relocated from the Grand Brûlé area to protect it from being buried by lava in the 2000s. The church also features stained glass windows created by the local artist Guy Lefèvre, which depict themes related to the volcanic eruption. Notre-Dame des Laves is a notable tourist attraction in the region of Côte-au-vent on Réunion, drawing visitors interested in volcanology, religious heritage, and unique natural phenomena.
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Tip: The best time to visit Notre-Dame des Laves is during the dry season from May to November for pleasant weather and clear views of the volcano. Visitors are advised to check local conditions near Piton de la Fournaise before visiting due to volcanic activity. While entrance to the church is free, donations are appreciated. The church is accessible by road, and nearby parking is available. Purchasing guided tours that include the church and surrounding volcanic sites can enrich the experience. Modest footwear is recommended for walking around the lava fields nearby.
Interesting facts
- •The 1977 lava flow encased the church but stopped just three meters inside the nave, sparing it from destruction.
- •The church’s pink color contrasts strikingly with the black lava surrounding it, making it a visually unique landmark.
- •The Vierge au Parasol statue was relocated to protect it from volcanic lava in the 2000s.
- •Stained glass windows by local artist Guy Lefèvre depict the volcanic eruption and its impact on the church and community.
History
Notre-Dame des Laves was built before the 1977 eruption of Piton de la Fournaise.
During the March 1977 volcanic eruption, lava flowed around the church and entered its nave up to three meters but did not destroy the structure.
This event made the church famous as a symbol of survival against natural disaster.
In the early 2000s, the Vierge au Parasol statue was moved from the Grand Brûlé area to prevent it from being buried by further lava flows.
Since then, the church and its surroundings have become a significant cultural and tourist site in Réunion.
Place Guide
Notre-Dame des Laves Church Interior
The interior of the church shows the lava flow that entered the nave, visible as a solidified black wall contrasting with the church’s pastel pink walls. The stained glass windows by Guy Lefèvre illustrate the volcanic eruption and the church's story of survival.
Vierge au Parasol Statue
A statue of the Virgin Mary holding a parasol, originally located at Grand Brûlé, was moved near the church to protect it from lava flows. It symbolizes protection and faith for the local community.
